Name: A Celebration of Dance at Sea
Brand: Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
Rating: 4.6 (74 reviews)

Overview

Departing Southampton aboard the Borealis, this 18-night voyage with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines unlocks the very best of England and Mediterranean. Highlights include calls at Gibraltar and Olbia, with 2 leisurely sea days between ports as you cruise through the waters of England and Mediterranean. Whether you're relaxing on deck on a sea day or exploring ashore, this Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines journey offers something for everyone. With fares from £2,899 per person, this is a wonderful way to experience England and Mediterranean by sea.

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines

With more than 175 years of know-how behind it, this heritage brand has the expertise to deliver quality cruising with strong, customer-friendly value. It's known for its ideally sized ships and caters to a broad range of guests, including couples, solo travellers and families. It also offers a wide selection of carefully curated itineraries, from no-fly mini cruises from the UK to mystery cruises in the Mediterranean.

Cruise Itinerary

Day 1

Southampton

Imagine setting sail from Southampton on a grand world cruise, a journey that promises unparalleled adventure and relaxation across the globe. As your ship departs, you'll feel the excitement of exploring distant shores and experiencing diverse cultures. Each day brings new horizons, from the bustling markets of Asia to the serene beauty of the South Pacific islands. Onboard, enjoy world-class dining, entertainment, and amenities that cater to your every need, ensuring your journey is as comfortable as it is captivating. A world cruise from Southampton isn't just a holiday; it's a collection of life-changing experiences wrapped into one magnificent voyage

Days 2-4

At sea

Day 5

Gibraltar

The North District of Gibraltar unfolds like a chapter from a historic novel, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of naval supremacy and strategic importance. Its rugged landscape, framed by the imposing Rock of Gibraltar, creates a dramatic backdrop for exploration. The climate here, tempered by the Mediterranean Sea, provides a pleasant ambiance year-round, perfect for leisurely strolls through quaint streets lined with colorful houses. Away from the bustle of typical tourist spots, this district showcases authentic glimpses of local life, from bustling markets to cozy cafes. As the gateway to the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, it's also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with the chance to spot Barbary macaques, Europe's only wild monkeys, roaming freely amidst lush vegetation.

Day 6

Cartagena

Nestled along the Mediterranean coast, Cartagena exudes an air of ancient grandeur, tracing its roots back to the Phoenicians and Carthaginians. This historic port city boasts a climate blessed with year-round sunshine, perfect for leisurely strolls along its palm-lined promenades. Beyond its famed Roman ruins and imposing fortifications, Cartagena offers a glimpse into authentic Spanish life, with bustling markets brimming with local flavors and artisans' wares. Cruise lines strategically dock to provide easy access to Cartagena's wealth of cultural treasures, from the Roman Theatre to the Modernist architecture of its city center. It's a destination where history meets modern charm, leaving an indelible mark on every visitor's memory.

Day 7

Cap de Formentor

Day 7

Menorca

Day 8

Propriano, Corsica

Day 9

Olbia

Day 10

Salerno

Salerno beckons with tales of maritime glory, its shores echoing with the echoes of ancient seafaring civilizations. Nestled along the picturesque Amalfi Coast, Salerno boasts a Mediterranean climate, where warm sea breezes kiss sun-kissed shores year-round. Cruise lines navigate these crystalline waters, offering a glimpse into Italy's authentic soul beyond the well-trodden paths. Visitors are treated to the region's culinary delights, from freshly caught seafood to fragrant lemon-infused dishes. As the gateway to the UNESCO-listed Amalfi Coast, Salerno invites exploration of its rugged cliffs and charming coastal villages, revealing the true essence of Italian coastal living.

Day 10

Nestled at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, Gibraltar beckons with its legendary past, guarding the entrance to the Mediterranean like a steadfast sentinel. Its iconic Rock, a natural fortress steeped in myth and history, towers majestically over the sparkling waters below. The Mediterranean climate offers temperate winters and balmy summers, inviting exploration year-round. Beyond the duty-free shopping and bustling main street, Gibraltar unveils hidden treasures, from the labyrinthine tunnels of the Great Siege to the Moorish Castle perched atop its rocky perch. As one of the last remaining British Overseas Territories, Gibraltar's blend of British and Mediterranean influences creates a truly unique destination

Day 11

Sorrento

Perched atop the rugged cliffs of the Sorrentine Peninsula, this coastal gem beckons with tales of ancient glory. Its storied past, intertwined with tales of Greek and Roman mythology, lends an enchanting aura to the present-day landscape. Blessed with a Mediterranean climate, Sorrento offers balmy weather and breathtaking vistas, making it a haven for those seeking respite from the ordinary. Here, amidst lemon groves and olive orchards, cruisegoers find solace in the simplicity of lifea refreshing departure from bustling tourist hubs. And as dusk descends, the melodious strains of traditional Neapolitan music fill the air, evoking the true spirit of Southern Italy.

Day 12

Day 13

Cagliari

Set against the backdrop of ancient civilizations, Cagliari welcomes travelers with the echoes of its storied past. Blessed with a Mediterranean climate, its sun-kissed shores offer a haven for those seeking a genuine Italian experience. Away from crowded tourist hubs, Cagliari boasts authentic charm and unspoiled landscapes, revealing the true essence of Italy. Cruise lines dock along its picturesque harbor, providing access to historical treasures such as the impressive Bastione Saint Remy. Delight in the local cuisine, where savory seafood dishes reign supreme, complemented by the renowned Cannonau wine, cultivated in the island's sun-drenched vineyards.

Days 14-15

At sea

Day 16

Lisbon

In the annals of maritime lore, Lisbon stands as a testament to resilience, having weathered centuries of conquest and exploration. Its labyrinthine streets whisper tales of Moorish conquests and Age of Discovery triumphs, each cobblestone a silent witness to the city's rich past. Beneath the warm Mediterranean sun, Lisbon exudes an undeniable charm, drawing travelers seeking an authentic escape from the beaten path. From its vibrant neighborhoods to its serene waterfront, Lisbon offers a glimpse into Portugal's soul, where fado music reverberates through alfresco cafes, and the aroma of freshly baked pasts de nata fills the air, tempting even the most seasoned voyagers.

Days 17-18

At sea

Day 19

Southampton

Day 1

Southampton

Days 2-4

At sea

Day 5

Gibraltar

Day 6

Cartagena

Day 7

Cap de Formentor

Day 7

Menorca

Day 8

Propriano, Corsica

Day 9

Olbia

Day 10

Day 10

Day 11

Day 12

Day 13

Days 14-15 At sea

At sea

Day 16

Lisbon

Days 17-18 At sea

At sea

Day 19

Southampton

1353

Passengers

642

Crew

1997

Launched

2022

Last refit

61849t

Tonnage

238m

Length

34m

Width

22kts

Speed

Decks

GBP

Currency

Borealis

Sister ship of our flagship Bolette, Borealis joined us 2020, and is perfectly suited for enjoying scenic cruising of the world's lesser-known waterways. From cruising past remarkable landscapes and historical sites to capturing the beauty of the natural world.

All Prices

Customer reviews

Reviews

Memorable world crise

Exceptional experience lasting 110 days crusing the Southern hemisphere. Cannot fault Fred Olsen. As a solo traveller special events were put on for us. Port talks were informative. Specialist speakers and entertainment was on a rolling programme. Various classes for dancing,craft,deck games, events were provided fir the whole trip. Optional port excursions well thought out. A truly wonderful experience. Well done FredOksen

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Bolette

Reviews

Great ship and great service

We had heard so many good things about Fred Olsen we decided to do a short cruise to give them a try. On 22nd May we boarded Bolette and were very pleasantly surprised at how spacious the community areas were. We had a window cabin which we found quite spacious with lot’s of proper wardrobe space. There was a small refrigerator and tea and coffee making facilities. The bathroom had a spacious walk in shower compared to many other ships we had been on. Believe it or not there was still a nightly turn down service which has now gone from many ships due to cost cutting. The theatre was I think the best I had seen on any ship and they had some very good entertainment on board. The dining room was great with an upper and lower level with very attentive staff. The menu had certain things on that were on there daily but also with quite a comprehensive menu which changed every day (unlike a lot of the bigger ships I have been on)to suit all tastes. My only disappointment was the fact that they had two sittings for dinner but I would have liked to see an open sitting scheme. I am not a buffet person but I think this is the best buffet I have seen on any of the ships I have been on. We did not try it fully just on the first and last day. Overall I was very impressed.

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Bolette

Reviews

Fred at its best

Lovely cruise, staff amazing, food superb ship clean and tidy, staff always smiling . Can’t wait for our next cruise

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Balmoral

Reviews

Absolutely fantastic

I recently went on a 5 day cruise, with Fred Olsen on the Borealis. We went to Rotterdam and Amsterdam. The whole experience was great. Loved the sea days. Especially the 10am craft classes. The lady leading the class really knew her stuff. I did my own thing in Rotterdam and a Fred Olsen excursion in Amsterdam. Again very well organised and a knowledgeable guide.

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Borealis

Reviews

Borealis to Cartagena

Fabulous, only slightly spoiled by a faulty mooring line capstan winch that had inadequate maintenance resulting in horrid noises late at night when the sea conditions got rough, also the Portuguese dock workers strikes at the time that meant we had a day at Queta instead, which was a fabulous alternative. The cruise was a little pricey compared to our usual Ambassador Cruise Line, and missed out on offers from FOCL of £200 per cabin free OBC by just a week when they started extra promotions to sell remaining cabins. Our next cruise will be back with ACL as they are better in Customer considerations of the need for my wife to take a small mobility scooter on board, to enable getting about easier at the ports of call. Most aspects of the FOCL cruise were absolutely superb, however both ACL and FOCL could improve significantly if they really looked at each others operations with little or no extra input.

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Borealis

Reviews

Lovely relaxing time.

Lucky we were on this ship, the weather wasn’t brilliant on this cruise to the Canaries but we were well looked after, food good (especially Colours & Tastes Asian Fusion), good shows. Fireworks in Lisbon worked better than the previous year on a different ship.

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Borealis

Reviews

A tired old ship

As with all cruise lines the staff were mainly very friendly. Food ok though often lukewarm. All inclusive drinks very limited although that will have changed with FO's new policy. Cabin was frankly shabby but functional. Be prepared for a very senior demographic.

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Borealis

Reviews

Best of scenic cruising

Fabulous cruise to Croatia, weather was very hot, accommodation, scaffolding and food all excellent

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Borealis